Oh Season of Giving

I started giving blood after my dad passed away in July 2015. I was already signed up for the blood drive before my dad was even sick, so after he passed two days earlier, I went to Ketler to give blood in honor of my dad.

As soon as I got inside the ice rink I knew I was in the right place.. .all of my dads favorite players were honored with banners at the end of the rink: Dale Hunter, Rod Langway, Mike Gartner & Yvon Labre.

My appointment today was for 730am and as I left Verizon Center last night after the Caps beat the Buffalo Sabres 3-1, I contemplated not coming because it meant I had to get up at 530am on a Saturday! But then I thought about the person who might need my blood donation and how they may not even have the option to wake up early or late on a Saturday, and it all made sense.
After giving blood, you are directed to the snack area to replenish yourself before heading out on your way. There is a survey to help Inova Blood services better serve us . One of the questions is how to get more people to not be intimidated to donate. I answered to assure people they were helping others and with the great service here you don’t have to be afraid of needles!!

With Thanksgiving teo days ago and living in a time where being kind to one another is not reported on as much as the unkind stuff, it’s important to remember we should be kind and give more than we receive.

If your unsure or afraid of giving blood, don’t be. I was in your shoes not too long ago, unfortunately it took me too long to realize it’s not about me. It’s about what I can give to help!

Next blood drive is in January! I’ve already signed up!! How about you?! Come join me! You won’t be sorry! Oh and did I mention the Marcus Johansson bobblehead! 😉